Effectiveness of brief executive functions-based cognitive remediation in inpatient males with schizophrenia

Abstract

Context: Executive functions deficit is one of the hallmark impairments seen in persons with schizophrenia and is also linked with their functional outcome. Aims: The present study was designed to assess the effect of targeted cognitive remediation (CR) on executive functions and psychopathology in persons with schizophrenia. Settings and Design: This was a preliminary intervention study based on quasi-experimental design. Subjects and Methods: A CR module targeting executive functions was designed. Six persons with schizophrenia who underwent 4 weeks of individual executive functions-based CR were compared with matched control treatment as usual (TAU) group on Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Statistical Analysis Used: Between-group comparisons were made through Mann–Whitney U-test. Within-group pre-post analysis was made through Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: Post-1-month comparison on PANSS subscales, MMSE and WCST non-perseverative error showed insignificant group differences. However, participants in the intervention group committed significantly less perseverative error and completed more category sets on WCST in comparison to TAU. Conclusions: One-month CR targeting executive functions was found to be effective in improving cognitive flexibility. Despite a small sample, findings emphasize the need for including CR in the regular management of persons with schizophrenia.

Keywords

• cognitive remediation
• executive functions
• schizophrenia